It takes two to TANGO....

We decided that we couldn't come to Buenos Aires without learning how to do the Tango! And so it was that we trundled off for our beginners lesson at a famous Tango hall called 'Confiteria Ideal'. 

Before our lesson began we were invited upstairs to the Milonga Hall where local and ex-pats were dancing the Tango. The majority of people seemed middle aged and were there on their own: I thought it was a wonderful way for people to meet new people while at the same time having fun. Each time the music would stop, most people would take a new partner meaning they got to dance with almost everyone of the opposite sex. I really hope there is a revival of ballroom dancing in Europe in my lifetime; I am honestly a big fan and think it would be a wonderful pass-time.

Our instructors show us how it's done...

You could sense our combined nervousness as we were told to stand in a line while we were taught how to 'walk' - this was more like a glide: Torso slightly forward, knees slightly bent, and walk...walk...walk...

By the end of the two hours we had all pretty much mastered the basic steps in a Tango and were being corrected on our posture and the way we interacted with our partners. After a nervous start, Chris did so well in the end that he managed to pick up the nickname Senor Tango Legui! (Tango due to his natural ability for the dance and Legui due to his love for the Argentine Liquor we have found of the same name which Chris has managed to guzzle every night!). I really want to pick up ballroom dancing of some sort when I'm home. 

It was a great night, thoroughly enjoyed by all. Lisbeth and Jim are even hoping to scope out some weekly lessons back home in DC - what fun! We ended the night in a great restaurant in the San Telmo district recommended by Monica's chef friend Dick. The service was fantastic and the food was delicious. A great end to a great evening - our last evening all together in Buenos Aires. 

Our amazing Instructor at the Confiteria Ideal: we would all recommend this place for a lesson if you are on a trip to Buenos Aires. It makes for a fun, interesting and entertaining evening whether you are alone or with friends. The instructors are professional and passionate with lots of patience and time for each and every one of their students.

You know when you've been Tangoed...
Senor Tango Legui slumbers while Mono and 
I played the card game Spit until the early hours...